Rubí Araujo became the first transgender city council member in this country on March 10, 2016. Deputy for the Democratic Revolutionary Party (PRD) in the State of Guanajuato, she replaced Deputy Julio César García Sánchez, who was criminally charged for beating his exgirlfriend, his legal situation still yet to be determined by the proper authorities.
Nine years ago, Rubí began to work for the gay community investigating a hate crime commited against a friend of hers in Guanajuato City. She founded a civil association called Colectivo Rubí in defense of human rights of the gay community that provided consulting, sex education, and strategies for preventing violence. Due to her activism, she was invited to become a member of the PRD, which eventually led her to become a council member.
Rubi Araujo (photo: m-x)
“I am proud to be the first member of a council openly accepting my sexual orientation and to represent the lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer (LGBTQ) community, making this a point of transition in the political and social life of the State of Guanajuato. I call to overcome taboos and focus on the right to serve the public” Suárez stated.
Visibility and representation in public office is a big step for the LGBTQ community towards gaining ground on equal rights, getting rid of labels, and finally ending discrimination.
In her first speech, she called on State Governor Miguel Márquez Márquez and local deputies to legislate in favor of the gay community, recognize its rights and obligations as members of our society, and support equal marriage in Guanajuato.
Source: M-x , atencion san miguel
